Passengers to get discount for late delivery of food in trains

In a new initiative, Indian Railways would issue an “apology” in form of a cash discount of ₹100 to a passenger if food booked for the journey is not served on time aboard a train, said a report.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), which handles the catering services of Indian Railways, will adjust the discount in the next order of food or beverages, the Hindustan Times report said, citing a rail official.

The discount will reportedly be applicable only on the delay from caterers’ side, and the same would not be applicable for the passengers aboard trains running late.

The discount will be valid for online and offline purchase as well as for a cash refund, said the report.

It may be noted that the IRCTC has recently removed cancellation charges on online food bookings. Passengers need to cancel orders 2 hours before the delivery time.

Senior divisional commercial manager, North Western Railway, CR Kumawat, told HT, "The scheme will not only help the railways to serve its passengers with more comfort and assurance but also attract more customers to its extensive e-catering network.” 

The Railways is expected to commence the new scheme from this month to keep the customer-supplier bonding intact.